National Bike Month Maintenance Guide

May is National Bike Month! Attorney Bill Shirer, the Cyclist at Law, knows just how precious and important a cyclist’s bike can be, which is why the law office promote cycling safety.

No one wants to lose their bike in a cycling accident, and preventative maintenance is one of the best ways to prevent this from happening. Use the tips in the following infographic to help you properly maintain your bike, part by part.

However, not all accidents can be prevented. If you find yourself dealing with injuries associated with a cycling accident caused by another person or vehicle, contact the Cyclist at Law. Attorney Bill Shirer is an avid cyclist and will work to get you the compensation you deserve. Call 800-877-6188 today.

Common Injuries After a Bike Accident

The exhilaration of a ride in the open air is healthful and good for your circulation, but a bike is no match for an automobile when you are involved in a crash. Cycling can expose a rider to head injuries, including a broken nose, lacerations, concussions, and even cerebral contusions. Legal representation by the Cyclist at Law may help you recover from your losses and injuries, but the first thing to do after a cycling accident is to get medical attention as soon as possible.

Bike Accident Injury

Minor Injuries May Hide Major Damage

A crash that seems insignificant can result in facial lacerations or a broken nose, and you may decide to ignore them. Unless you are a doctor, you have no way to know how badly you are hurt. When you are hit by an automobile, tremendous force is exerted against your body. The damage that results from a blow to your head can cause a concussion or a cerebral contusion, both serious medical conditions that can require immediate first aid as well as long term therapy.

Concussion symptoms can include:

  • headaches
  • blurry vision
  • sleeping more
  • sleeping less
  • problems with balance
  • an inability to concentrate

Get Treatment First

The first step to healing after an accident is to get treated by a doctor. You injuries may seem like nothing to you, but looks are often deceiving. Only a professional can help you determine the best course of action for your healing.

Get Legal Help

If you were involved in a bike accident due to the negligence of another driver, you may decide to call a Dallas bike accident attorney. Attorney Bill Shirer, Cyclist at Law, is an experienced cyclist and an outstanding attorney who specializes in personal injury law. He fully understands the problems riders face after a cycling accident.

If you have auto insurance, you may face a disappointment when you find that it probably does not cover damages to your bike. After you get treatment, take action to find legal representation to help you file a compensation claim.

Attorney Bill Shirer handles cases like yours every day, and his experience is invaluable when you need to get compensation for your injuries and damage to your bike. Call the law office at 800-877-6188 to get the legal representation that you deserve.

How Bicycle Helmet Are Made

Snell TestingManufacturers sometimes have to exceed government standards to meet the ones established by the Snell Memorial Foundation. Helmets are designed to promote bicycle safety by limiting head injuries in cycling accidents, and responsible cyclists always wear them. However, accidents do happen, and when they do, riders need representation by a Dallas bike accident attorney to seek compensation for property damage, injuries, lost wages, and other legal matters. Attorney Bill Shirer, Cyclist at Law, can represent injured riders who need to seek compensation when a cycling accident occurs.

Snell Testing Procedures

Helmets are rated in a state-of-the-art lab at Snell Memorial Foundation, where technicians conduct tests that resemble road conditions.

Helmets must earn passing marks on these areas to achieve Snell certification:

  • Impact – Snell mounts a helmet on a metal head form and then drops it onto steel objects that are similar to objects a cyclist may hit while riding. The test indicates how well a helmet protects a rider’s head in a collision with a large object.
  • Positional Stability – This test places weight on a side of a helmet to measure how securely it fits. Shifting is acceptable, but the helmet fails if it rolls off the head. The test detects the ability of a helmet to stay on a rider’s head in case of an accident.
  • Dynamic Retention – A chin strap is fixed under a dummy jaw piece and a weight is attached for a minute to measure the strength of the strap in a fall. Chinstraps are considered effective if they can hold a helmet on a rider’s head in a crash.

Protecting Yourself in a Crash

Cyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as motor vehicles according to Texas law. To get fair compensation for injuries that result from a bicycle accident, call the Cyclist at Law at 800-877-6188.

Important Insurance Questions After a Cycling Accident

Insurance QuestionsCyclists know that a competition bike is expensive, but insurance companies often seem to regard it as a toy that is not valuable. A Dallas bike accident attorney offers you the best chance of recovering damages to your bike. The Cyclist at Law, Attorney Bill Shirer, is an accomplished cyclist and an authority on bicycle accident and personal injury. You can count on him to understand the problems you face when your bike is damaged or ruined.

Coverage by Auto Insurance

Getting compensated for the loss of a bike is usually a complicated problem. Even worse, you probably cannot expect your auto insurance to cover damage to your bike—a bike covered by car insurance is an unusual occurrence. In some cases, your auto policy may cover some of your personal injuries, but the issue is often complicated.

A Business Matter

At a time when you suffer losses, you like to think that you can get understanding and support from your insurance company. However, you need to rethink that idea in business terms. Replacing your bike can cost thousands of dollars, and no insurance company welcomes a claim like that. Insurance companies are in business to make money, and paying large claims like yours runs counter to their financial interests.

When you have a cycling accident, you need a Dallas bike accident attorney to represent your financial interests.

How to Build Your Case

You can start to build your case by getting written verification of the value of your bike. The shop that sold it to you probably has a record of the sale that shows the date you bought it and how much you paid. You can also consult with the Cyclist at Law for free to get advice on how to proceed.

Dealing with an insurance company on your own puts you at a significant disadvantage from a knowledge standpoint. You are unfamiliar with the fine print on your policy—the insurance adjuster is an expert. You are probably suffering from shock or your losses—the adjuster is conducting business as usual.

Call the Cyclist at Law at 800-877-6188 to schedule a free consultation and get the help you need after your cycling accident.

Safety Tips for Cycling at Night

Night RidingCycling enthusiasts agree that riding at night is relaxing and enjoyable. However, it’s also dangerous. Knowing that you had the right of way will not take away the pain if you are struck by a motorist. The Cyclist at Law encourages you to follow these tips to have a safe night ride and to avoid the pain and trauma of an accident.

Visibility

Drivers aren’t always watching for cyclists, and riding in the dark makes you even more difficult to see.

Make sure that you are visible to drivers:

  • Wear a jacket and pants with reflective tape to make yourself more visible.
  • Put a wide band of reflective tape on your helmet so it will stand out when the headlights shine on it.
  • Use reflectors on your tires so a driver coming up on your side will see the bike.
  • Invest in a headlight and a rear light to make yourself more visible to drivers who are sharing the road with you.

Rules of the Road

As an experienced Dallas bike accident attorney, Attorney Bill Shirer knows how important it is to follow the rules of the road. The best way to avoid a cycling accident is for you to watch your surroundings closely:

  • Listen for oncoming cars.
  • Always ride in the same direction of traffic.
  • Watch for sewer grates that can throw you off your bike.
  • Give pedestrians the right of way.
  • Use hand signals when turning.
  • If you have to go around a parked car, look over your shoulder to be sure there is not a car coming up on your side.

Following the basic rules of bicycle safety will protect you when you ride your bike at night. Additionally, the more visible you are to cars, the easier it will be for them to see you and move past you safely. If you are riding on the road, be aware of your surroundings so you can get out of the way of an oncoming car.

If you have other questions about night riding or if you’ve been injured in a bicycle accident, call the Cyclist at Law at 800-877-6188. We represent cycling accident cases every day and can help you get the compensation you deserve for your pain and suffering.

Healing After a Cycling Accident

Healing After a Cycling AccidentFor many cyclists, the thrill of the ride comes largely from the rush of adrenaline that accompanies speed and endurance challenges. Others find the prospect of improving one’s health to be a major motivator, while still others love the freedom. Whatever your reason for cycling, though, you cannot ignore the possibility of injury. Whether you’re out on open country roads or weaving in and out of urban traffic, even the most skilled and experienced cyclists must be aware of the risks of riding. Attorney Bill Shirer, Cyclist at Law, wants to make sure you’re staying safe while riding.

And in the tragic event that you suffer any bike accident injuries, know that you can always return to the road. Of course, you need to first take the time to get appropriate medical treatment and, if necessary, secure compensation from the responsible parties. As far as the latter concern goes, Dallas bike accident attorney Shirer has extensive experience addressing bicycling injury cases. To accelerate your efforts in getting back on the bike safely, consider some of these tips for healing after a cycling accident.

Find a Specialist

Once you have confirmed your injury, find a specialist who concentrates on problems in that specific area. While many doctors have the ability to offer advice on a variety of conditions, a specialist will be in the best position to provide insight into a wide range of possible treatments and the pros and cons of each. Additionally, a specialist might be aware of new or rare options about which a generalist might not be aware.

Build Your Strength

When you are recovering from your cycling injury, the types of activities you can do will likely be limited (e.g., no cycling). But you may be able to train in other ways, such as performing resistance exercises. Weight training can help you improve your cycling in the future, as it helps you increase your muscular strength and endurance. Even if your lower body is restricted, strengthening your upper body will be helpful, as your arms act as stabilizers during your ride and can help you avoid injury in the future.

Hire a Defense Lawyer

When it comes to getting your body back in riding shape, look to your doctors for insight. But when it comes to your legal rights and securing compensation for your injuries, consult the Cyclist at Law, attorney Bill Shirer. Call today at 800-877-6188 for more information.

Statistics about Cycling Accidents in the U.S.

Bike AccidentCycling is an economical way to travel that provides superior aerobic exercise. When you ride, however, danger faces you at every moment. You have to contend with traffic, inattentive drivers, bad road conditions, and many more hazards, sometimes all at once. The odds are stacked against any cyclist who has an accident with a large vehicle.

Attorney Bill Shirer, the Cyclist at Law, is a cyclist himself and an expert on personal injury law who can provide legal representation when you need it.

Some Statistics

Statistics from the National Highway and Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) indicate that the sport is more dangerous for you if you are a man. Fatalities among men average around 87% of the total, and injuries among men are almost as high at 80%. Summer months produce the most accidents, whereas the fewest occur during December, January, and February.

Avoidance Measures

Data from NHTSA shows that you can control your exposure to risk of injury. By planning your ride to incorporate the statistical findings, you may avoid a disaster on the road. Your risk is higher if you:

  • are male
  • are 25-64 years old
  • ride at night
  • drink alcohol
  • have little experience
  • choose dangerous locations

You can improve your chances for a safe ride by taking these steps:

  • wearing your helmet and using it properly
  • wearing bright colors in the daytime and reflective clothing at night
  • paying attention and focusing on riding
  • obeying traffic laws
  • keeping your bike in good condition

Legal Representation

When the statistics on bike accident injuries include you, it’s time to hire a Dallas bike accident attorney to get compensation for your losses. Insurance companies are not in business to hand over personal injury settlements willingly, so your best option is to rely on the guidance of a board-certified personal injury lawyer with over 23 years of experience.

Remember that you can count on the Cyclist at Law if you are involved in a cycling accident. Put 800-877-6188 in your contact list so you can call Attorney Bill Shirer when you need him.

Fixing Your Bike After an Accident

Cycling AccidentBicyclists often get seriously hurt in cycling accidents involving cars. Even if you are lucky enough to only sustain minor injuries, your bike will probably be mangled by the impact. You may need the help of an attorney to get the motorist who hit you to pay for your bike replacement. Contact Attorney Bill Shirer, the Cyclist at Law, for help if you have had this type of accident.

Get a Police Report

It’s important to get an official police report if you are involved in a bicycle accident. The police report helps protect you in the event the driver changes his or her story when you file your claim. Call 911 as soon as possible after an accident. If you are seriously injured, medical care is your first priority, but you should talk to the police as soon as you are able to do so.

Take Photos

If at all possible, take photos of the scene of the accident and the damage to your bike. This can help prove that the driver was at fault and that repairs or replacements for your bicycle are necessary.

Call an Attorney First

It’s important to talk to your attorney before calling your insurance company. Your attorney can advise you on how to approach your insurance in order to maximize the chances of getting your bike replaced for free.

Give your attorney a copy of the police report, your medical bills, and photos of the scene of the accident. That way, he or she can help you put together your case and file a lawsuit if necessary.

In some cases, your insurance company may pay for your bike to be fixed. If your insurance company does not, however, you should be prepared to sue the driver who hit you. You and your attorney will have to prove that the driver was at fault for the accident in order to receive compensation for your bike and any personal injuries you may have sustained.

If you need a Dallas bike accident attorney, please call the Cyclist at Law at 800-877-6188 to schedule your free initial consultation.

The Growing Popularity of Cycling in the U.S.

Cycling is now one of the most popular sports in America, and it has long been a favorite pastime of individuals and families across the country. And it’s no surprise, given the health benefits and savings that cycling offers for people who use it as a means of replacing other modes of transportation, as detailed in the infographic below.

However, Attorney Bill Shirer, the Cyclist at Law, knows that with more popularity comes more chance at injury. Bicycling accidents can and do happen every day; cyclists who share the road with other vehicles are especially at risk for being injured in an accident. If you or someone you know has been injured while riding a bike, call the Dallas bicycle lawyers at the Cyclist at Law to review your case and get the compensation you deserve: 800-877-6188.

Winter Cycling Safety Tips from the Cyclist at Law

Biking in SnowWinter is a dangerous time for bikers. The dropping temperatures bring unstable weather conditions, including dangerous winter storms. If you plan to ride your bicycle this winter, make sure that you practice winter cycling safety.

Dallas drivers are not always accustomed to sharing the road with cyclists. If you are injured in a bicycle accident, contact Bill Shirer, Cyclist at Law. He is a Dallas accident attorney who is dedicated to providing legal assistance to individuals who have been injured in bicycle accidents.

Remain Visible

If you commute by bicycle, there may be days where your morning and evening commute are conducted in darkness. Whether you are biking during the day or at night, make sure other drivers and bikers can see you. Visibility is often the key to winter bicycle safety. Equip your bicycle with a headlight and taillight. Wear bright, reflective clothing to increase your visibility.

Prepare for Unexpected Weather Conditions

Winter weather in Dallas can be unpredictable and can include icy roads, freezing rain, or torrential downpours. These weather conditions can pose a serious risk to bicyclists.

Before you leave:

  • Check the weather conditions.
  • Make sure your tires are properly inflated.
  • Plan your route carefully.
  • Carry a cell phone in case of emergency.

Practice Safe Biking Habits

Regardless of the season, it’s important to practice safe biking habits.

  • Wear a helmet to protect your head from the risk of traumatic brain injury in an accident.
  • Obey all traffic rules and remain aware of your surroundings.
  • Conduct regular maintenance to keep your bike in top working order.

Following these simple steps will minimize your risk of being injured in a bicycle accident.

If you are injured while cycling, contact Dallas accident attorney Bill Shirer immediately. He will guide you through every step of the legal process, helping you obtain the compensation you deserve. For a free consultation, call the Cyclist at Law at 800-877-6188.